Officials say the social media trend is getting out of hand.
TAMPA, Fla. — A trend of teenagers meeting up in public spaces is quickly turning into chaos across Florida and the nation.
Police say the trend is known as “teen takeovers,” where calls for mass gatherings on social media are leading to fights, vandalism, disruptions and even weapons arrests in cities across the state.
The latest incident happened Friday night at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa, where Tampa Police arrested 22 people between the ages of 12 and 21 after fights and disturbances broke out. Officers also recovered two guns.
“This is a community safety issue,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said. “What happened that night was more than just a teen gathering. It was teens coming out, wreaking havoc, going into the street, fighting.”
The trend isn’t isolated to Tampa. Similar incidents have recently occurred in Brandon and Jacksonville. During spring break in March, Hillsborough County deputies arrested 20 people during separate teen takeover incidents at Brandon businesses, including Astro Skate and Urban Air.
Charges connected to the gatherings have included trespassing, battery, resisting law enforcement, drug possession and firearm possession.
Police say concerns are growing as summer approaches and students get out of school. Tampa police told 10 Tampa Bay they are already aware of another possible takeover planned for this weekend and say officers will be prepared to respond.
Officials are also urging parents to stay involved and monitor their children’s social media activity and whereabouts.
“It doesn’t just rely on law enforcement,” Bercaw said. “We need the community, the guardians, the parents all to do their part. Know where your youth are. Engage with them. What are they doing on social media? Have an app that tracks where they are. Just be engaged in what your youth are doing out there.”